The state of Michigan was admitted to the Union on January 26, 1837, becoming the 26th state in the United States. Today, Michigan ranks 8th in population, with approximately 9.8 million residents, and 11th in land area, covering more than 96,000 square miles. The state is made up of 83 counties, 276 cities, and over 1,000 municipalities, including townships and villages—all serving as local branches of Michigan’s government structure.
In 1976, Michigan passed the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), establishing the public's right to access government records and ensuring transparency across all levels of government. Modeled after the federal FOIA, this law gives citizens access to a wide range of records—including budget documents, employee salaries, and other government-held data—at both the state and local levels.
Public records in Michigan are accessed for a variety of personal and business-related purposes. Whether you're trying to locate someone, verify credentials, or conduct a comprehensive background check, Michigan agencies maintain a wide range of records essential for these tasks. Many of these documents are available online, providing quick and convenient access.
A Michigan background check can include:
Criminal history
Driving records
Civil and criminal court cases
Credit reports
Property ownership
Marriage and divorce records
Liens, judgments, and bankruptcies
The Michigan State Police – Criminal Justice Information Center (CJIC) maintains the statewide criminal history repository, which includes arrest records, filed charges, and conviction data. The system provides information from law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional facilities, including details on felonies, misdemeanors, and sentences exceeding 92 days.
To expand your background search:
Access court records through the Michigan Judicial System
Request divorce, civil, and criminal case documents
Obtain vital records, including birth and death certificates (from 1867) and marriage/divorce records (divorces available from 1897 onward) through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
Michigan offers a wide array of publicly searchable databases, which are especially useful for verifying professional credentials and uncovering asset information:
Verify teacher credentials and attorney licenses via Michigan’s professional boards and the State Bar
Search real estate ownership and property tax data through county assessor and treasurer offices
Use the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) to access:
Articles of incorporation
Business entity filings
Ownership and corporate status information
Bankruptcy records can be accessed through Michigan’s PACER system, revealing financial disclosures, assets, and liabilities
To streamline your search and avoid unreliable sources, use a public records directory that points to the most current, official, and relevant websites maintained by government agencies and reputable private organizations. These directories offer:
Free downloadable forms
Step-by-step instructions
Guidance for navigating agency-specific procedures
Whether you’re conducting a targeted document search or a comprehensive background investigation, using well-organized, up-to-date resources ensures accuracy, saves time, and improves results.
